Aqua’s Barbie Girl song is not in the Barbie movie (and for good reason)

Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, is in theaters this Friday, July 21. It’s a must-see empowering movie, and it features an incredible soundtrack. However, don’t expect to hear the song “Barbie Girl” by Aqua play in the movie (well, not the full version, at least). And here’s why.

Margot Robbie brings the iconic doll to life in the Greta Gerwig’s movie. Arguably the most popular and recognized toy in the world, our favorite doll has grown so much over the years. Much like Barbie’s fashion choices, the Mattel doll has never once gone out of style. On the contrary, it continues to evolve and connect with children everywhere.

When you think of Barbie, many things come to mind, including the hit song “Barbie Girl” by Aqua. Now, when I first learned that Gerwig’s movie would not be including this iconic song, I was very upset. How can there be a movie about Barbie, without the wildly popular song? Well, all you need to do is read the lyrics to get your answer.

Why is Aqua’s Barbie Girl song not in the movie?

The Greta Gerwig film is all about empowering its audience, particularly women and young girls everywhere. It’s a powerful movie with an impactful (and very timely) message. A message that would have made no sense with the inclusion of “Barbie Girl,” which is a controversial song that strongly contradicts the movie.

Mirror shares that fans have “defended the song by explaining” that the song lyrics is “a commentary on the molds and stereotypes that women are often forced to conform.”

It’s a catchy song for sure, but with the lines “I’m a blonde bimbo girl” and Ken singing “kiss me here, touch me there, hanky panky,” as well as “come jump in, bimbo friend” and other lines, it just doesn’t match the tone Gerwig was looking for.

The movie gives us a new version of Barbie Girl

Fans can still hear some parts of original song as the credits play in the song “Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice. Just not the lines above, only the chorus and catchy tune can be heard playing.

What do you think about the exclusion of the song? Would you have liked to hear it in the movie anyway? The movie is rated PG-13 and is in theaters Friday, July 21. It also stars America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, and Will Ferrell. Will you be watching this one on the big screen or wait for the streaming release?